Last season I was fairly confident in pegging Jay Cutler and Josh McCown as the two quarterbacks atop the Chicago Bears depth chart. Cutler for obvious reasons was #1, and I thought McCown was experienced enough to hold on to the #2 job.
This year there is a bit more uncertainty behind Cutler, but I think I have a good idea how it will shake out.
Roster Locks
Last off season we were all wondering about Cutler's impending free agency, but now he's one of the highest paid players in the NFL. A year ago Bears general manager Phil Emery said that the team would not hand out any deals during the season. When it came to Cutler, he wanted his new head coach to have a full season to work with him before deciding on a new contract. Head coach Marc Trestman obviously liked what he saw and the Bears gave Cutler a seven year contract after the 2013 season.
A good bet to make it
I think whomever loses the battle between Jimmy Clausen and Jordan Palmer for the #2 QB job ends up being cut. That's not to say the Bears wouldn't view him as a viable #3 option, I just don't think the Bears will carry three quarterbacks on the 53 man roster.
I think Clausen's experience and pedigree gives him the edge, but I wouldn't be surprised either way. Whichever player receives the pink slip, Emery will have his number on speed dial in case something happens to Cutler.
On the bubble
Unless rookie David Fales plays out of this world during preseason, I think he ends up on the practice squad. Remember that Fales was a 6th round draft pick, so he was passed over by the other 31 teams numerous times. Also remember that the Bears signed Clausen after seeing how Fales looked up close and personal during OTAs. The Bears undoubtedly like his upside, but a year spent working on his craft may be the best for his future.
What are your thoughts on the QB position for the Chicago Bears?